The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya
The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya is one of the most magnificent examples of
sacred Buddhist architecture outside Asia. It is a complete representation
of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha.
The full name of the stupa is “The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya Which
Liberates Upon Seeing.” It is commonly shortened to “The Great Stupa of
Dharmakaya.” The Sanskrit word dharmakaya, which literally means “body of
reality or truth,” refers to the essence of awakened being, absolute buddha
nature.
It is said that those who gaze at The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya see the
body of the Buddha. When their thoughts are stopped by its power and beauty,
they experience the mind of the Buddha. That moment of direct insight, no
matter how brief, is the gateway to enlightenment.
The Great Stupa is also a reliquary. Relics of the Buddha, as well as
those from other great teachers, including Chögyam Trunpa Rinpoche are
sealed into the 108-foot gilded structure. Countless mantras and fragments
of sacred objects, many of them preserved in the Himalayas for centuries,
are held within the massive base and walls.
The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya has a profound impact on the people who
come in contact with it. Like all such undertakings, the stupa is a work of
devotion. It has come to life through the efforts of a largely volunteer
work force who gave their hearts, time, funds and skills to build it.
The stupa’s construction and artistry is unique. Most of it has been
accomplished by hand. All of it is an act of love.
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